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THE MOST ROMANTIC COUPLE ON TELEVISION 10/21/2013 3:38:00 PM by: Malinda Martin

Do you enjoy television romances? I sure do. Ever since I was a child I’d smile and sigh whenever favorite characters would finally discover that they were in love with each other. This is dating me some, but I remember Maxwell Smart and 99. And who could ever forget Jeannie and Major Nelson. Remember when Jim and Pam got married at Niagara Falls? Or when Richard Castle and Kate Beckett shared their first kiss. Wow!

Yes, the small screen knows how to create a good love story, but the best romance ever? I’m sure everyone has an opinion but I’d like to submit to you my choice for the greatest romance on television.

Their names are Lee and Morty Kaufman and they have been married for 44 years. Don’t know them? They are the elderly couple that appear in the Swiffer commercials. Yes, they’re a real couple that make their home in Valley Stream, New York.

Their story is interesting. Both widowed, they met in their forties. She was a remedial reading teacher and he had a son with reading problems. Sounds just like an episode of “My Three Sons.” They raised six children and have five grandchildren and are now enjoying a new career as popular spokespersons for the Swiffer cleaning systems. Why are they the most romantic couple on television?

First, they are kind to each other. He helps her with her work. They talk with mutual respect. Even when she asks the question, “Morty, are you listening to me?” He answers gently, a trace of mischief in his tone.

Second, they dance in the kitchen. How romantic can you get? They still love to touch each other and it’s very evident as Morty slowly twirls Lee and they sing a song together.

Third, he still calls her “babe.” Are you just melting yet? We sometimes ignore the effect of little endearments but they are always important. Little pet names make us feel special, unique. It enhances romance.

Lastly, they endure. I don’t know what Lee and Morty have endured in their marriage but I’m sure it hasn’t been easy. No marriage is. And to endure for 44 years with humor and love is amazing. I believe they deserve an award for putting all of Hollywood and their shallow commitments to shame.

So here’s to you, Lee and Morty. May you have many more years together. You will be forever memorialized in my mind.